Making good on resolutions

New Year's resolutions like losing weight are nothing new to many people, but the decision to adopt a healthier lifestyle is easier to make than to follow.

No one knows that better than Darlene Miller of Hagerstown.

The 46-year-old teacher has vowed this year to lose 30 pounds.

Last summer Miller joined Curves for Women in Hagerstown and worked out regularly until her hectic lifestyle made it difficult to get to the gym.

"I stopped going and regretted it," said Miller.

She said she is striving to make exercise and a good diet a permanent lifestyle change.

"It's time. My clothes aren't fitting," she said.

Miller's goal of weight loss has been echoed by many who have signed up at gyms across Washington County this month, according to managers.

Advertisement

Curves for Women reported a 15 percent to 20 percent increase in membership for the new year.

"We see the biggest increase in January. Some people slack off the rest of the year and then it's a mob scene. We'll see ladies we haven't seen in five or six months," said Amanda Broy, Curves manager.

Cinnamon Rowland came to Curves in June with a goal of dropping up to 55 pounds. She has lost 30, she said.

"In the past I always made it a New Year's resolution but was never successful," she said.

In 1999 she decided it was now or never and committed to a diet and exercise plan that has carried through to 2000.

A low-fat diet, lots of water and never skipping breakfast are some of the changes Rowland, 31, of Hagerstown has made to help her reach her goal.

Managers at Fitness Priority on East Baltimore street say a jump in participants at the start of the new year is typical.

"It happens every year," said employee Laurie Shifler.

Just how long and how difficult it will be for people to get into shape varies, she said.

"For people that are fitness conscious to begin with it is easier to get back in shape because the body remembers and responds," she said.

The Hagerstown location of Gold's Gym has seen a 30 percent jump in usage and membership, according to Eric Easton, general manager.

People who have not exercised in a long time should not give up on themselves and be afraid to go back, he said.

Exercise can be modified for the elderly or people with limitations, but it is essential for maintaining good health, he said.